Figuring Out Fitness and What Works For You
October 4, 2017Fitness is such a broad term-- but in general, it refers to the state or condition of being fit and in good health, and especially good physical condition resulting from exercise and proper nutrition. Figuring out fitness and what works for you is important.
When it comes to regular exercise, it can be a challenge. When asked, most people are honest and share often they don’t like to exercise nor do they have time for it - therefore it is hard to commit. Exercise is such an important part of being healthy that one should never make it an option but a must. That's why it is important that you're able to figure out fitness and what works for you so it is something you enjoy. Remember the famous quote by Edward Stanley “Those who think they have no time for exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”
To Be Fit, Set Goals For Fitness And What Works For You!
Most people who start an exercise program eventually stop. Then they beat themselves up for being lazy and unfit. The good news is that it could be that the exercise they chose wasn’t a good fit for them. Exercise is very personal. That's why it is important to achieve fitness and what works for you is key so you can stick with it long-term.
To find your ideal exercise program – you should first figure out your fitness goals. What do you want out of your training? What are your goals?
Can you separate your fitness goals from your weight loss goals? They should be separate.
Most people that want to lose weight have an unrealistic goal of burning off calories. This desire to burn off more calories through exercise may be “forcing” them into the wrong type of exercise. And when they don’t see any progress in burning off the weight – they quit.
Instead of proving anything to anyone, decide on what is important to you, and train for that. The more your training program improves how you think, feel, and move in your daily life, the more likely you’ll be to stick with it.
Why Exercise?
Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise prevents health problems, builds strength, boosts energy, and can help you reduce stress.
A good goal is to exercise 5 times a week for at least 30 minutes each time. However, most people need to start gradually. Start by exercising 2 or 3 times a week for 20 minutes at a time.
At the beginning, remember that even small amounts of exercise are better than none at all. Start with an activity you enjoy and can do comfortably such as a brisk walk alone or with a supportive friend. Learn to take your pulse and calculate your target heart rate. As you become used to exercising, try to exercise within your target rate zone for optimal benefit.
Take Notes On Your Workout
- Ask yourself: Am I feeling better? Am I looking better? Am I happy?
- Are you actually following the plan? Or are you cheating?
- Are there small adjustments you can make to improve your workout?
- Are you doing too much too soon?
- If after 2 months of following your exercise plan diligently, if you don’t see results in your program, (I doubt this would happen) – cross it off and move on to another one.
On a final note, does your job, children, family responsibilities make some types of training difficult? Plan around them, if you don’t have time for the gym, then exercise with a trainer at home, or alone, or with a friend close by. Your exercise program is designed to reduce stress, not create it. Make it easy on yourself.
Also, family physicians play a critical role in counseling patients about health interventions to prevent the onset of obesity. Some of these weight management counseling issues include:
- Knowing your obstacles to nutritional eating habits and suggesting alternative food choices
- Recommending positive behavioral strategies – including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, approaches to coping with stress, food journaling, and establishing a social support network
- Setting realistic and attainable physical activity goals
Remember: Before beginning any exercise program, make sure to talk to your doctor first.
 | ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sue Arevalo currently loves teaching group exercise classes at her own fitness business – PurSue Fitness, LLC. She has always had a vast interest in fitness, human movement, and healthy living. She is licensed in Nutrition with Exercise and Nutrition Works. Sue has been the Clinic Director for Sports Conditioning and Rehab – a physical therapy clinic located in Orange, California. |
